OTT is a big blessing, says actor Rushad Rana

What are your prominent roles in the industry so far?

Right from my first show, Hip Hip Hurry, till date, people remember me for series like Woh Rehne Wali Mehlo Ki, Kehta Hai Dil, India Calling, Savdhaan India, Piya Ka Ghar, Kumkum, among others. On the Bollywood front, I started with Mohabbatein; though I had a small part, I got a good feedback for the role. Then I did Veer Zara, James, Dor, Shireen Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi and Maatr, to name a few.

Besides acting, you are known for your hosting skills also. Tell us about that…

I did a bit of anchoring for a show called Page 3. Off late, I have anchored a crime show titled NRI Haadsa, which was aired on Colors UK. The same show was also aired on Voot. Anchoring gives a very different kind of kick and I enjoy it.

Talking about Anupamaa, how did you bag the role?

Swati Soni, a dear friend had suggested last year during the lockdown that I get in touch with Rajan Shahi sir. She also shared the contact details of the casting director of the show. Later, I sent my pictures to him. After a few days, I got a call from them saying that they had a role for me but my character won’t be constant. That’s how things worked out.

How much do you relate to the character of Anirudh in Anupamaa?

I relate to Anirudh in more ways than one. I’m a divorcee and to play a guy who’s going through a divorce is relatable because it is something that I have already gone through. You really want to forget these things in life, but it’s difficult. Because of my personal experience, I could handle the scenes with sincerity and depth.

What changes do you think the pandemic has brought about in the industry?

I think the biggest change the pandemic has brought in the industry is the fact that people are moving towards more meaningful and substantial content unlike before, when only grandeur used to matter.

OTT platforms have grown to new heights during the pandemic. What’s your take on the content on the web?

OTT is a big blessing. I don’t know what actors and technicians would have done otherwise. Even as an audience, I am thankful to OTT or else people would have found it tough during the lockdown.

Tell us about your OTT projects…

My web debut was with a show titled Punch Beat for ALTBalaji. I would like to thank Vikas Gupta for that. I played a boxing coach in it. I am currently working on season two of that series. I also did a short film titled Cottage and a full-length feature titled Peshawar for OTT on Ullu app. As of now, two of my web series are ready.

If not an actor, what would you have been and why?

I would probably be a lawyer or a photographer. In fact, I am planning to pursue my passion for photography sometime soon.